Macramé Basics, Techniques and Finishing Techniques

Cut two of the desired length of cord (approximately 36 inches). Attach the center of each length of cord to a component using a lark's head knot, creating four cords. Pin or tape the strands to your work station at the center to make it easier to form your knots evenly.

Basic Macramé Square Knot

Make a square knot using the two inside cords (anchor cords) and the two outside cords (working cords 1 and 4).

Pass cord 1 horizontally over the anchor cords then pass cord 4 over the end of cord 1, under the anchor cords and up through the loop (created by strand 1) then pull snug. (This is a half square knot.)

Pass cord 1 under the anchor cords then bring the cord 4 under cord 1, over the center cords and through the loop. Pull the ends of the 1 and 4 cords tight, so the knot rests close to the previous half of the square knot.

Continue making square knots to the desired length.

Note: It's important to alternate the cord 1 over and under the anchor cords to get a flat pattern. Consistently passing over the anchor cords will cause the pattern to twist.

Macramé Spiral Knot

Make a square knot using the two inside cords (anchor cords) and the two outside cords (working cords 1 and 4).

Pass cord 1 horizontally over the anchor cords then pass cord 4 over the end of cord 1, under the anchor cords and up through the loop (created by strand 1) then pull snug. Repeat to create a spiral pattern to the desired length.

Double Half Hitch Knot

Cut three of the desired length of cord (approximately 36 inches). Attach the center of each length of cord to a component using a lark's head knot, creating six cords. Pin or tape the strands to your work station at the center to make it easier to form your knots evenly.

Begin the half hitch knot by crossing cord 1 (anchor) over the other cords. Bring cord 2 (working) up and over cord one, then pass back through the loop created, cords by 1 and 2. Repeat to create a second half hitch knot using cord 2 once more. Repeat using cords 3 - 6.

Tips:

• Place a pin through a knot or between cords near the last half hitch knot to secure it in place
• Increasing or decreasing the distance between the previous rows of half hitch knots will cause various patterns

Bring the anchor cord back over the working cords then use cord 6 to create a half hitch knot. Continue to create half hitch knots along the anchor cord in reverse order to create a zig-zag pattern.

Macramé Finishing Techniques

Once your macramé jewelry design is complete, there are many options for finishing the ends. Here are a few ways that provide a professional look and enhance your design.

Follow along with jewelry designer Jude, who will walk you through the steps needed to finish macramé using a slide knot technique.

Bring the ends of the design together so they lay parallel in opposite directions.

Pass an approximately 8 - 12-inch length of cord behind the ends of the design, through the center of the bracelet, then form a square knot securing the ends together. Create several square knots, approximately 1/2 inch.

Tips:

• Keep the cord as tight as possible when creating the knots to ensure they are not too loose when the design is finished
• Typically, approximately six or more knots will ensure a sturdy clasp

Repeat Step 1 to secure the ends of the adjustable clasp, being careful not to let adhesive touch the anchor stands.

Tip: If glue dries on the anchor strand it will prevent the clasp from sliding.

Tie an overhead knot in each anchor strand approximately one inch from the adjustable clasp.

If desired, string a bead onto the end of one cord then tie a second overhand knot, securing the bead in place. Repeat on the second end of cord.

Apply adhesive to the knots, allow to dry then trim excess cord.